Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

Whenever I’m in the mood for something bold and exciting, I turn to my trusty recipe for Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake. This dish has a special place in my heart, often reminding me of those vibrant summer evenings spent with friends and family. As the sun sets and the air fills with laughter, there’s nothing quite like serving up a tray filled with juicy chicken and colorful veggies, all infused with that irresistible peri peri kick. One bite transports me back to those cherished moments, and I can’t wait to share this experience with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
380 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Fat:
15 g
Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake Is a Winner

Flavor Explosion

The bold flavors of peri peri seasoning bring a delightful heat that’s balanced with a hint of citrus. This combination elevates the chicken to new heights, making every bite an adventure.

Easy One-Tray Meal

The beauty of the Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks on one tray, making clean-up a breeze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthy Ingredients

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of vibrant vegetables like sweet potatoes and onions means you’re getting a wholesome meal that’s good for you.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Whether it’s zucchini or bell peppers, the recipe adapts beautifully.

Impressive Presentation

Serving the Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake straight from the oven to the table adds a rustic charm. The colorful medley of ingredients looks stunning and makes a statement without requiring extensive plating skills.

Time-Saving

This recipe is a time-saver, allowing you to prep everything in just a few minutes. While it’s baking, you can spend time with family or catch up on your favorite show.

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake Ingredients

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

When it comes to the ingredients for the Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake, each one plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. The key players here are the succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the aromatic peri peri seasoning. Together, they create a mouthwatering dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds richness and helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken.
  • 4 chicken breasts – The star of the dish, perfect for soaking in those spicy flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons peri peri seasoning – The key ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive flavor.
  • 2 onions – Adds sweetness and depth to the bake.
  • 2 sweet potatoes – Provides a hearty, nutritious component with a touch of sweetness.
  • 4 mini corn on the cobs – They add a fun crunch and vibrant color.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro – A garnish that adds freshness and brightness.
  • 1 red chili – For those who like an extra kick!

Preparation Steps for Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

Making the Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake is an enjoyable process that allows you to get creative in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Let’s dive into these delicious steps!

  1. Start by placing the chicken breasts in a dish. Drizzle over the olive oil and sprinkle with peri peri seasoning. Make sure to turn the chicken over a few times, ensuring it is fully coated in that spicy goodness. Set aside to marinate briefly, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. If the chicken has been marinating in the refrigerator, take it out to come to room temperature. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken cook evenly.
  3. Preheat your oven to 450ºF/230ºC. This high heat is essential for roasting the chicken to perfection.
  4. While the oven is heating, peel the onions and cut them into quarters. Their natural sweetness will develop beautifully during roasting.
  5. Next, cut the sweet potatoes into wedges. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. The caramelization on these during roasting will be divine!
  6. Take a large sheet pan and arrange the sweet potato, onion, and mini corn on the cobs in a single layer. This allows for even roasting and enhances the flavors.
  7. Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of peri peri seasoning. Toss them lightly to coat.
  8. Pop the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 25 minutes. This gives the veggies a head start.
  9. After 25 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven and carefully rearrange the vegetables slightly to create four spaces for your chicken breasts.
  10. Finally, add the well-marinated chicken breasts to the sheet pan. Return it to the oven for another 16 to 18 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF/74ºC.
  11. Once done, serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh cilantro, and slices of red chili for garnish. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor significantly. Even a short marination can make a difference.
  • Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly, avoiding any guesswork.
  • Feel free to adjust the level of peri peri seasoning to match your preferred heat level.
  • If you have leftover chicken, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

There are countless ways to put your own spin on the Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake. Here are some tips to make this recipe even more enjoyable:

  • Storage: Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days.
  • Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely and then store in a freezer-safe container.
  • Pairing: Consider serving it with a refreshing salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Vegetable Variations: Substitute the sweet potatoes with zucchini or bell peppers for different flavors and textures.
  • Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

Great Combinations for Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

When it comes to serving your Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake, the possibilities are endless. Here are some great ideas to consider:

  • Serve with Rice: Pair the chicken with a side of fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
  • Perfect for Family Dinners: This dish makes an excellent centerpiece for family gatherings.
  • Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers as a hearty lunch the next day; just reheat and serve!
  • Accompany with a Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a crunchy contrast to the roast.
  • Great for Entertaining: This dish impresses guests and is perfect for casual gatherings.
  • Seasonal Pairing: During the summer, pair with corn on the cob and a light coleslaw.

FAQ

Peri peri seasoning is a spice blend that typically includes chili peppers, garlic, salt, and various herbs. It originates from African cuisine and is known for its spicy, tangy flavor profile. You can buy it in stores or make your own by mixing dried chili flakes, garlic powder, and other spices.

It’s not recommended to cook frozen chicken directly. For best results, thaw your chicken breasts in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.

To amp up the heat, you can add more peri peri seasoning or include fresh chili peppers, such as jalapeños, during the cooking process. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can substitute any of the vegetables with what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even broccoli work well. Just ensure that the cooking times are similar for best results.

Conclusion

The Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake is a vibrant, flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its delightful blend of spices and simple preparation make it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I encourage you to give it a try; it might just become your new go-to recipe for any gathering!

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Peri Peri Chicken Tray Bake is packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. This easy weeknight dinner combines juicy chicken, roasted vegetables, and a spicy seasoning that will leave you craving more. Make it tonight for a delightful family meal!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: African
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons peri peri seasoning
  • 2 onions
  • 2 sweet potatoes
  • 4 mini corn on the cobs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
  • 1 red chili

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Peeler
  • Frying Pan
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Start by placing the chicken breasts in a dish. Drizzle over the olive oil and sprinkle with peri peri seasoning. Make sure to turn the chicken over a few times, ensuring it is fully coated in that spicy goodness. Set aside to marinate briefly, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. If the chicken has been marinating in the refrigerator, take it out to come to room temperature. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken cook evenly.
  3. Preheat your oven to 450ºF/230ºC. This high heat is essential for roasting the chicken to perfection.
  4. While the oven is heating, peel the onions and cut them into quarters. Their natural sweetness will develop beautifully during roasting.
  5. Next, cut the sweet potatoes into wedges. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. The caramelization on these during roasting will be divine!
  6. Take a large sheet pan and arrange the sweet potato, onion, and mini corn on the cobs in a single layer. This allows for even roasting and enhances the flavors.
  7. Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of peri peri seasoning. Toss them lightly to coat.
  8. Pop the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 25 minutes. This gives the veggies a head start.
  9. After 25 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven and carefully rearrange the vegetables slightly to create four spaces for your chicken breasts.
  10. Finally, add the well-marinated chicken breasts to the sheet pan. Return it to the oven for another 16 to 18 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF/74ºC.
  11. Once done, serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh cilantro, and slices of red chili for garnish. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor significantly. Even a short marination can make a difference.
  • Tip 2: Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly, avoiding any guesswork.
  • Tip 3: Feel free to adjust the level of peri peri seasoning to match your preferred heat level.
  • Tip 4: If you have leftover chicken, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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